The Life-Changing Power of the LifeStart™
The first few minutes of life are vital for every newborn, but for premature and vulnerable infants, they can mean the difference between thriving and struggling. LifeStart™, an innovative neonatal solution, is designed to support these critical moments. It is more than just a piece of hospital equipment; it is a platform that helps deliver modern neonatal care. This tool can help to enhance delayed cord clamping (DCC).
What is Delayed Cord Clamping (DCC), and why is it Important?
Delayed Cord Clamping (DCC) is one of the simplest and most effective ways to optimise neonatal care. It involves waiting for 30 seconds to 3 minutes before clamping the umbilical cord after birth, allowing the newborn to receive additional blood from the placenta, rich in oxygen and nutrients. Studies have shown that DCC can:
- Reduce the risk of anaemia.
- Improve iron stores.
- Support better brain development.
For preterm babies, the benefits are even more profound. By delaying cord clamping, there’s a 27% reduction in the risk of mortality*, along with a significant drop in complications like intraventricular haemorrhage, necrotising enterocolitis, and Sepsis.
However, the challenge arises when premature newborns require immediate medical attention, often necessitating a swift move to a resuscitation area, making DCC difficult to implement.
How LifeStart™ Makes a Difference
This is where LifeStart™ changes the game. Designed to bring life-saving equipment directly to the mother’s side, allows for resuscitation or support while the umbilical cord remains intact. This means the newborn continues to receive vital placental blood while the medical team provides essential care.
With its mobility and height-adjustable platform, LifeStart™ enables bedside resuscitation without prematurely cutting the cord, ensuring that preterm or vulnerable newborns have the best start in life. It empowers healthcare professionals to keep newborns close to their mothers during these crucial early moments while maximising the benefits of DCC.
*Reference available on request.